How Now Blue Cao?

By Ralph Alter

It didn't take long for Representative Joseph Cao of Louisiana to oust Dede Scozzafava from the top ranking as most reprehensible turncoat posing as a Republican. Cao's dunderheaded vote in support of the Pelosi-Care bill undoubtedly garnered some ear-marks for his district and who-knows-what other promises from the desperate-not-to-fail Democrats.

It is not likely a co-incidence that Pelosi and Obama's wranglers targeted Cao, as he is reportedly

".. the poorest member of Louisiana's delegation (including the state's two senators) in Congress: as of 2009 his assets were no greater than $195,000 and his potential liabilities mounting to $215,000."

Cao, who defeated convicted felon, William Jefferson for his seat, would be well advised not to be seen shopping for freezers anytime soon.

Rep. Cao visited the White House in April and has invited Michelle to come to New Orleans and visit. Cao was one of only 7 Republicans to vote in favor of Joe Wilson's disapproval after the South Carolinian's outburst against Obama's SoTU speech.

Cao appears to be broadcasting on the All Katrina All the Time network, as Democrats have figured out that if they can include a Katrina ear-mark in a bill, they can count on Katrina Joe, regardless of what other legislation it includes.

5 to 1 says Cao begins consulting with his weasels-in-arms Arlen Specter and Jim Jeffords before November 2010.

Ralph Alter blogs at Right on Target

Update:

Michelle Malkin looks at what Cao got in return for his vote:

For what it is worth, here is the cheap price the Democrats paid for Cao's vote:
Louisiana Congressman Anh "Joseph" Cao on Sunday morning released a statement after he voted as the only Republican in favor of the Democratic health care reform bill.

The health care reform bill, dubbed the "Affordable Health Care for America Act" (H.R. 3962), passed the U.S. House of Representatives in a 220 - 215 vote.

"Tonight, I voted to keep taxpayer dollars from funding abortion and to deliver access to affordable health care to the people of Louisiana," Cao said in a statement released by his office. "I read the versions of the House [health reform] bill. I listened to the countless stories of Orleans and Jefferson Parish citizens whose health care costs are exploding - if they are able to obtain health care at all. Louisianans needs real options for primary care, for mental health care, and for expanded health care for seniors and children."

Cao wrote he obtained commitment from President Obama that he would work together to address the health care issues of Louisiana, including the FMAP crisis and community disaster loan forgiveness, as well as issues related to Charity and Methodist Hospitals. "I call on all my constituents to support me as I work with him on these issues."

He obtained a "commitment from President Obama."

You know what that's worth: Nothing.